Monitoring, evaluation and learning support for CEPI
Commissioned by CEPI to support facilitation and co-development of its revised Theory of Change and revised results framework as it transitions from CEPI 2.0 to CEPI 3.0.
The Task
The task was to support CEPI to develop a coherent, organisation-wide Theory of Change and to strengthen the foundations of its Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) system by clarifying outcomes, mapping existing monitoring systems, and adapting the CEPI 2.0 Results Framework to align to the revised Theory of Change. The work was intended to provide a clear line of sight between strategy, delivery and preparedness outcomes, while remaining proportionate and usable for teams across the organisation.
The process
We used a structured, highly consultative and iterative approach, working closely with CEPI leadership, MEL champions and technical teams across the organisation:
1. Inception and scoping: We undertook a desk-based review of key CEPI strategy, results and monitoring documents and held inception discussions with senior leadership and strategy teams to clarify objectives, scope and constraints.
2. Established a monitoring, evaluation and learning champions group: Working closely with CEPI, we draw up a Terms of Reference and supported the formation of the group.
3. Theory of Change co-development: We designed and facilitated eight Theory of Change workshops with teams across CEPI’s directorates. These workshops explored how CEPI’s investments and partnerships contribute to change through the lens of the 100-day mission capability framework for pandemic and endemic preparedness and response globally.
4. Organisation-wide consultation and validation: The draft Theory of Change was tested through MEL champion workshops, a week-long asynchronous feedback sprint- breaking down the different elements into digestible pieces for all staff to feedback on and validation discussions with governance and investor groups. Feedback was systematically captured and used to refine the narrative and causal logic.
5. The Theory of Change visual and narrative developed and signed off by CEPI’s board.
6. MEL framework mapping: We conducted a comprehensive mapping of 10 relevant organisations MEL frameworks and developed a synthesis and recommendations report for CEPI.
7. Results framework refinement: Findings from the MEL framework mapping, an internal MEL systems mapping and Theory of Change process we co-developed a refined CEPI 2.0 Results Framework, including consolidation and closure of legacy indicators and the introduction of new KPIs focused on readiness, system use and contribution to preparedness. This included a high-level implementation plan for the use of the results framework going forward.
The Result
The collaborative, consultative and iterative work delivered a clear, organisation-wide Theory of Change that articulates how CEPI contributes to faster, safer and more equitable epidemic and pandemic preparedness through interconnected capability areas, providing a coherent bridge between CEPI 2.0 delivery and CEPI 3.0 strategy.
The MEL framework mapping provided CEPI with a robust evidence base on the strengths and limitations of its existing MEL systems, highlighting where indicators were overly tactical, difficult to disaggregate or insufficiently used for learning and decision-making.
This work directly informed a refined CEPI 2.0 Results Framework that maintains continuity with existing commitments while strengthening alignment to the revised Theory of Change. Together, these outputs established a practical foundation for CEPI’s future MEL system, supporting clearer accountability, improved strategic oversight and readiness-focused decision-making as CEPI moves into its next strategic phase.
Project Lead: Joanna Knight
In collaboration with: Krystle Lai and the CEPI team.
Themes: Theory of Change; MEL framework; Learning together; Strategize together
"This work came at a pivotal moment for CEPI, as we approached the end of our strategic cycle and prepared to move into a new phase. Joanna and Krystle provided thoughtful facilitation and clear structure to what was a complex organisational process. They helped us clarify our Theory of Change and strengthen the coherence of our Results Framework in a way that felt both rigorous and practical. The work has provided a strong foundation for the continued development of our MEL system."
Roxana Prisacaru, Senior Evaluations and Learning Manager, CEPI